30-Year Anniversary of Cathy Sposito Homicide

Detectives continue their work in the Cathy Sposito murder investigation and are seeking to locate a small caliber firearm involved in the homicide as part of this effort. There is a likelihood the weapon was dumped sometime after her murder on June 13, 1987, anywhere between the Thumb Butte Trail site and the Castle Canyon area of Prescott Valley. If anyone recalls finding a small caliber firearm between these designated locations or has knowledge regarding such a weapon associated with this case, you are urged to call Detective Dan Pritchard at 928-777-7275 or Yavapai Silent Witness at 1800-932-3232.

A $10,000 reward is still being offered by YCSO and Silent Witness for any information that leads to the arrests of a suspect or suspects responsible for the murder. Callers to Silent Witness at 1800-932-3232 remain completely anonymous and will not have to testify. Detectives continue run down leads and work with DNA evidence based on new technologies not previously available.

The following was issued in a media release on May 26, 2016, along with the included photos –

On Saturday, June 13, 1987, Catherine ‘Cathy’ Sposito, a Prescott College Student, rode her mountain bike to the Thumb Butte trailhead west of Prescott and began hiking the Thumb Butte Trail. At some point during the hike, she was attacked and brutally murdered by one or more suspects who quickly disappeared and were never caught. Hikers in the area heard her screams for help, but could not reach her in time. The night before Cathy was killed, she had dinner at a local Prescott restaurant and told friends she planned on hiking in Thumb Butte the next day.

YCSO Detective Ross Diskin, who has worked the case over the past few years, continues to hope someone will come forward and supply the missing link leading to the arrest of those responsible for Cathy’s murder. Yavapai Silent Witness and YCSO are offering a $10,000 dollar reward for any information that leads to the arrests of a suspect or suspects responsible for the murder. Callers to Silent Witness at 1800-932-3232 remain completely anonymous and will not have to testify. Detectives continue run down leads and work with DNA evidence based on new technologies not previously available.

Recently, Mr. Sal Sposito, Cathy’s brother, visited the crime scene with Detective Diskin to discuss the latest updates on the investigation and answer any questions he had on behalf of the family. Mr. Sposito expressed his appreciation for the efforts of YCSO detectives, Silent Witness, and the Cold Case Unit. He implores anyone with information on the violent murder of his sister to do the right thing and contact the Sheriff’s Office or Silent Witness.

Citizens can contact the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office with information or questions at 928-771-3260 or the YCSO website: www.ycsoaz.gov